Indigenous Symbols and Practices in the Catholic Church

Indigenous Symbols and Practices in the Catholic Church presents views, concepts and perspectives on the relationship among Indigenous Peoples and the Catholic Church, as well as stories, images and art as metaphors for survival in a contemporary world. Few studies present such a multidisciplinary interpretation of appropriation, spiritual and religious tradition, educational issues in the teaching of art and art history, the effects of government sanctions on traditional practice, or the artistic interpretation of symbols from Indigenous perspectives. Through photographs and visual studies, interviews and data analysis, personal narratives and stories, this book explores the experiences of Indigenous Peoples whose lives have been impacted by multiple forces-Christian missionaries, governmental policies, immigration and colonization, education, assimilation and acculturation. Contributors explore current contexts and complex areas of conflict regarding missionization, appropriation and colonizing practices through the voices of Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars, and provide interpretations and possibilities for the future.